Hummingbirds are some of the most beloved birds in the world, captivating people with their small size, iridescent colors, and ability to hover and fly backwards. However, many hummingbird species are facing threats that put them at risk of endangerment or even extinction.
How many hummingbird species are there?
There are around 338 different species of hummingbirds worldwide. The majority live in Central and South America, with only around 12 species regularly found in North America. Hummingbirds are found only in the Americas – they are not naturally found anywhere else in the world.
What threats do hummingbirds face?
Some of the major threats that put hummingbirds at risk include:
- Habitat loss and degradation – Logging, agriculture, urban development, and other human activities destroy hummingbird habitat and flowering plants they depend on for food.
- Climate change – Rising temperatures and extreme weather events threaten hummingbird survival. Their rapid metabolisms make them vulnerable to overheating.
- Pesticides – Chemicals sprayed on crops and gardens can poison hummingbirds and reduce insect populations they rely on for food.
- Predators – Domestic cats kill huge numbers of hummingbirds each year. Other predators may increase with habitat loss.
In addition, some hummingbird species naturally have small geographic ranges or populations, putting them at higher risk of extinction. Competition from invasive species can also impact native hummingbirds.
How many species are endangered?
Out of around 338 hummingbird species, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List categorizes:
- 23 species as Near Threatened
- 38 species as Vulnerable
- 15 species as Endangered
- 5 species as Critically Endangered
This means at least 58 species meet the criteria for being threatened with extinction. The number may be even higher as there is not enough data to evaluate all hummingbird species.
| IUCN Category | Number of Species |
|---|---|
| Near Threatened | 23 |
| Vulnerable | 38 |
| Endangered | 15 |
| Critically Endangered | 5 |
Some examples of endangered hummingbird species include:
- The Pink-headed Warbler, with less than 1,000 individuals left
- The Ecuadorian Hillstar, with declines due to habitat loss
- The Bogota Sunangel, which is known from just a couple sites
Which North American species are at risk?
In the U.S. and Canada, few hummingbird species are currently endangered. However, some face significant threats:
- Rufous Hummingbird – Population has declined by over 60% since the 1970s. Climate change is reducing its breeding range.
- Allen’s Hummingbird – Only breeds in California, where urban development has reduced habitat. Vulnerable to fires and drought.
- Calliope Hummingbird – Breeds in mountain meadows vulnerable to climate change. Population has declined by over 30%.
Other North American species like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Black-chinned Hummingbird remain widespread and common. But habitat loss along migration routes or on wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America could put them at future risk.
Are hummingbirds endangered in my state?
Only Hawaii and a few Southern states like Alabama and Louisiana do not have breeding hummingbirds, though hummingbirds may pass through during migration. Here are the status of hummingbirds in some specific states:
California
California has 8 regular breeding hummingbirds, including the endangered Allen’s and threatened Rufous. Habitat loss is the main threat.
Texas
Texas has 11 potential breeding hummingbirds. Most are doing well, but habitat loss along the Gulf Coast threatens species like Buff-bellied Hummingbird.
Minnesota
Minnesota only has one regular breeding hummingbird, the Ruby-throated. But other vagrant species show up rarely. None are currently at risk.
New York
New York has one breeding species, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Some rarer species can show up. No NY hummingbirds are currently endangered.
Alaska
Alaska has only one breeding hummingbird, the non-migratory Rufous Hummingbird. This species is declining in southern Alaska due to climate change.
What can I do to help hummingbirds?
Everyone can help protect hummingbirds by:
- Planting native flowers and trees that provide nectar and nesting sites
- Avoiding pesticides in your yard and garden
- Installing sugar water feeders, especially in winter and migration
- Keeping cats indoors to prevent predation
- Supporting conservation groups working to preserve habitat
You can also help scientists study hummingbirds by reporting sightings to projects like eBird and Journey North. Tracking hummingbird populations helps identify areas and species most in need of conservation.
Conclusion
Many amazing hummingbird species are under threat from human activities like habitat loss and climate change. Nearly 20% of all hummingbird species worldwide are considered endangered, vulnerable, or near threatened. While North American hummingbirds are generally faring better, some species like the Rufous and Allen’s face significant declines. Everyone can help protect these colorful, energetic birds by providing habitat, reducing pesticide use, keeping cats indoors, and supporting conservation efforts.
